CFIA Finds No Evidence of Infectious Salmon Anaemia on the West Coast

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has completed a two-year intensive testing initiative and found no evidence of infectious salmon anaemia (ISA) or infectious pancreatic necrosis (IPN) in wild salmon on the west coast. Between 2012 and 2013, 8,006 samples of trout and salmon species were collected. All of the samples were tested for ISA, 6,734 were tested for IPN, and 1,272 were tested for infectious haematopoietic necrosis (IHN). All tests were negative. The tests were performed using internationally recognized and validated testing protocols.

The CFIA also evaluated existing surveillance data for farmed salmon in B.C. and found no current or historical evidence of ISA or IPN in these populations. The evaluation analyzed data collected from 2006 to 2011 through provincial and federal programs as well as from routine monitoring and testing by industry.

The CFIA is currently testing farmed salmon in B.C. for non-pathogenic ISA to confirm they are free of the disease. Testing for other diseases in wild and farmed finfish in B.C. is also planned.

Quick Facts

These diseases do not affect human health or food safety. However, they can affect aquatic animal health and have an adverse effect on trade.

Samples of wild salmon were collected from the wild and processing plants.

The Agency led this initiative with support from many organizations including Fisheries and Oceans Canada, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture, First Nations groups, salmonid enhancement program hatcheries, the processing and aquaculture sector, and non-profit organizations.

Quotes

"The CFIA is committed to protecting fish health - both wild and farmed. These collective findings are good news for the aquatic industry in B.C. and the Canadian economy as a whole. We will continue to keep Canadians informed of our work surrounding this important Canadian resource."